Church plans free Thanksgiving dinner

Howard Roden

Published 6:00 pm, Monday, November 22, 2004

I saw a lot more depression and suicide during this time of year," he said. "And a lot of it has to do with the lack of family," he said.

Pastor of D'Upper Room Ministries, Martin will provide a harbor on Thanksgiving Day for those without the comfort of family or friends. Currently, he plans to prepare at least 100 traditional turkey dinners at his church, which is located inside the Christian Coffehouse at 7424 FM 1488, just one-half mile west of Honea-Egypt Road).

Martin's goal Thursday will be to serve up camaraderie and comfort as well as candied yams from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.

"So many churches and organizations do a great job of providing food baskets," he said. "But we wanted to give those who are all alone this Thanksgiving a place where they can meet a friendly face and hear a kind word."

Martin and his wife, Virginia, decided only three weeks ago to provide the free meals. It is an idea that matches his ministry's mission.

"Since God has us start this church, he has sent us the emotionally hurting," Martin said. "We want to remove the hurt from those apart from their families this Thanksgiving."

Already through word-of-mouth they have received commitments totaling about 40. Some are couples who are unable to visit their families.

"We have one couple from Missouri and another from Illinois that are coming (Thanksgiving Day)," he said. "We have one woman who's bringing five orphaned children who are living with her.

"We're not limiting this to anyone with a certain income. Anyone can come and eat with us," added Martin, who medically retired as a Houston Police Department sergeant.

Martin stresses that RSVPs are not necessary, but they are appreciated. He can be reached at the D'Upper Room (281) 259-5001.

"We'll prepare more food if it's necessary," he said. "Right now, we're expecting about 70, but we're preparing for 100. We'll serve until we have no food left."

The meals have been financed by individual donations, the majority provided by the approximately 55 members of the 6-month-old church.